With this in mind, staff from the Leeton District Hospital held a rally on Monday morning calling on the government to address what they say are unsafe staffing levels and security issues at the facility. 

A similar rally was also held in Narrandera, with the nurses wanting more accountable nurse-to-patient ratios. 

The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) was on board at the rally, with Leeton branch representative Robyn Whittaker said the idea behind the event was clear. 

“We just want what city hospitals have gotten when it comes to these issues … we want better ratios and to feel safe and secure when we come to work,” she said. 

“(Security issues) are having a big impact on us.”

With an increased occurrence of issues in the emergency department, the nurses want more security for the hospital. 

As Leeton’s police station isn’t manned 24 hours a day, staff are feeling vulnerable and want to see more done to protect them at work. 

Jeff Crebert from the NSWNMA said it was now up to the government to act on the concerns of the nurses. 

“It’s about providing safety for our nurses and midwives, but our patients too,” he said. 

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As well as nurses and midwives attending Monday’s rally, they were also supported by members of the community, paramedics, councillors and potential election candidates. 

Helen Dalton from the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party said there were many issues within the health system. 

“Because there’s so many problems, I’m working to try and get an Upper House inquiry into things like this,” Mrs Dalton said. 

“There’s a lot of issues and it’s time we look at what we need and find a solution.”

The nurses will continue their fight, with Ms Whittaker hopeful the government responds soon to their requests. “Everyone is supporting us,” she said. “We hope we do get a response to our concerns. 

“(Member for Murray) Austin Evans was invited (to the rally), but we didn’t hear from him. What we will do now is regroup and keep pushing for better ratios and ensuring the safety of our staff.” 

Residents wanting to help the cause can write letters of support to their local members.

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